I have been informed by acquaintance in London that development has begun around the Estate. He was very kind to share this recent update and images . . .
Sifton (a London-area property developer) originally proposed two plans - one including Woodholme situated on 1 acre of land, surrounded by 50+ premium single detatched condominums. Essentially, the terms Sifton set out: buy the land (cost was about $400,000) - and the manor itself is yours. The catch was they wanted someone, not just anyone, who had the gusto & funds to restore the mansion - it needs about $1,000,000 worth of work... (by their estimation)
The second plan was to plow the manor, and build a slightly different plan which incorporated a few more condos in the place that the manor stood...
Both plans called to "save as many trees as possible". Apparently it appears that the developer is clearing more trees than most had anticipated...
It sat for a long time "Under Contract". Former Councillor Sandy Levin (he was an amazing councillor, I wish he hadn't "retired" from politics) wrote in the North London Beacon that "Under Contract" meant they found an undisclosed buyer, subject to the terms of approval for the condo properties to surround the manor. Looks like they've proceeded with the first plan, partly as only one application was filed to the city which outlines the condo plan that will surround the Woodholme estate.
One feature to note - the plan that incorporated Woodholme would change the "front door" location. The front door currently faces what was the pool - but under the Sifton plan, it would utilize the western most south facing door as the front door, if that makes sense.
Miggsie Lawson (bless her soul) must be turning in her grave . . .
:-(
